Home in Hoosier Country?
“Fulfilling the Promise”
Indiana University, a public university with the flagship institution in Bloomington, Indiana, is home to well over forty-thousand students from all over the world. Each person, bringing his/her/their unique experiences to IU, can discover life-long friendships, endless opportunities, and a new place to call home. The best part is that Indiana University is for students who want to change the world, fulfill the Indiana Promise, and experience the many programs that the university has to offer.
Here is what you need to know about IU Bloomington:
- IU – A party school?
“WE NEVER LOST A PARTY”
Parties happen all the time, sure. What event cannot be celebrated at frat houses, on the streets, or at a good ol’ house party? Have I mentioned that tailgates last all day, especially during football season?! However, that does not mean you have to party. I am a senior in college and have only attended a few parties as the DD (designated driver). Not all parties are as wild as movies portray them, and not all people want to get trashed each weekend (or at all).
- Dangerous town?
Let me start off by saying that when I told friends and family that I was going to be attending IUB come the fall of 2015, they all felt the need to tell me to be safe. While I greatly appreciate the concern for my safety, I reminded myself that crime happens at every college in the country. Bloomington makes national news because of the size of the university, and most people in Indiana are well aware of unfortunate events that have taken place. However, it is important to note that IUPD, Bloomington PD, and other emergency services in the surrounding areas are here to keep everyone in Bloomington, on and off campus, safe. That is their priority. If you feel unsafe, call IUPD for a “Safety Escort” back to your place. If out at night, walk home with friends or call an Uber. I feel safer in Bloomington sometimes than back at home. You are an adult capable of understanding that your safety is always important.
- Which program is the right fit?
Indiana University Bloomington has so many programs and specific schools for these programs that I cannot begin to name them all. On top of majors, there are minors, certificates, study-abroad programs, EMS-certification classes, etc. There are research institutions, the Maurer School of Law, the Kelley School of Business, and graduate school programs!
For more info check out the school’s website.
- Want to get involved?
There are over 750 student organizations you can join. Find a club that fits you best, or join multiple. I am the President of Brothers & Sisters at IU, a club that aims to establish friendships between domestic and international students through cultural events, monthly meetings, and other get-togethers like grocery shopping, sporting events, etc. I can honestly say that getting involved my first year was a fantastic decision. However, you can get involved in the community as well! You can volunteer at domestic violence shelters, animal shelters, at the hospital like I do, or even find a job!
- Sporting Events?
“24 SPORTS ONE TEAM”
Simply put, Indiana University is known for basketball. Students pay for season football and basketball tickets. All other sports, such as soccer and baseball, are free for students when they show a student ID at the ticket area. IU is a school full of die-hard sports fans and game-day is notorious for poor class attendance. Students will paint their whole bodies, scream until their voices are gone, and make as much noise as possible. At Traditions and Spirits (IU Welcome Week Event), the new class is welcomed to IU by the athletic department and is taught all the important chants to be used during the game. If you’re a sports fan, IU is the place for you!
- Becoming a Hoosier?
Step 1. Apply.
Step 2. Get accepted.
Step 3. Celebrate being part of the Hoosier family!
Step 4. Go to orientation and begin choosing classes.
Step 5. Move from home to the dorm – make it less stressful by trying to move in early and packing a little at a time.
Step 6. Begin your life as Hoosier!
P.S. Hoosier country is the place to be! #GoIU
Bailey Tingley
Psychology Major and Cutters Intern
Hey guys! I'm a senior Psychology student with an undeniable passion for life. It's rare to find me completely out of sorts and feeling down on myself. I am a lover of adventure, the medical field, German soccer, and Cutters football. When I'm not completely immersed in sports, school, work, internships and volunteering, you'll catch me laughing at ridiculous jokes, making a blog post for We Are IU or attempting to sleep.
